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Pha That Luang: The Great Sacred Stupa

Discover Laos' national symbol, a dazzling golden stupa with a rich history and deep cultural significance, located in Vientiane.

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Pha That Luang, Vientiane's iconic golden stupa, is Laos' most significant national monument and a symbol of Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty. Believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, this gleaming monument has evolved through centuries of history and reconstruction, standing as a testament to Lao culture and resilience.

A brief summary to Pha That Luang Vientiane

  • That Luang, Xaysettha, Ban Nongbone, 10009, LA

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for more pleasant weather.
  • Explore the surrounding temples and monuments within the Pha That Luang complex.
  • If you're on a budget, you can view the Stupa from the outside without paying the entrance fee.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From central Vientiane, walking to Pha That Luang is possible, though it's a considerable distance (approximately 4km). Start from the city center and head northeast along Thanon That Luang. The walk takes about an hour, offering a chance to see local life. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses offer an economical way to reach Pha That Luang. From the Central Bus Station (Talat Sao), take bus number 10 (ITECC-Talat Sao). Buses run approximately every 40 minutes. The fare is around 4,000 Kip. Be aware that bus schedules can be unreliable.

  • Taxi/Tuk-tuk

    Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Vientiane. A tuk-tuk ride from the city center to Pha That Luang typically costs between 30,000 to 60,000 Kip, but negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A taxi may cost around 60,000 to 100,000 Kip. Ensure the driver knows the destination, as it's a well-known landmark.

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Discover more about Pha That Luang Vientiane

Pha That Luang, or the Great Golden Stupa, is a magnificent temple and the most important national monument in Laos, located approximately 4km northeast of Vientiane's city center. This sacred site is revered as a symbol of Lao national identity and Buddhism. Legend suggests the site's initial establishment dates back to the 3rd century BC when Buddhist missionaries from India were sent by Emperor Ashoka to Vientiane, bringing a sacred relic of the Buddha. The stupa has undergone numerous reconstructions and renovations due to foreign invasions and natural disasters. King Setthathirath ordered the construction of the current stupa in 1566, six years after designating Vientiane as the capital of Laos. The temple suffered major damage during the Siamese-Laotian wars in the 19th century, leading to neglect. In the 20th century, the French colonial government and the Lao people restored Pha That Luang, completing the restoration in 1956. The architecture of Pha That Luang includes many references to Lao culture and identity. The main stupa is designed in a pyramid shape, approximately 69 meters long and 45 meters high. The stupa is covered with 500 kilograms of gold leaf. The complex is separated into an exterior region and the inside of the stupa. The stupa is surrounded by extensive grounds featuring temples, monuments, and a palace where monks reside and study. Exploring the grounds, visitors can find ancient Lao and Khmer artifacts and statues with Buddhist inscriptions and sculptures. Visitors can explore the architecture and the spiritual ambiance of the temple. The complex also includes two remaining temples, Wat That Luang Tai and Wat That Luang Neua, which represent the glory of the Lan Xang Kingdom.

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